Erik's expression is a cool mask but not completely. Anxiety rims his eyes in small wrinkles that pinch the seams where his lashes meet.

"I've had my soul touched once before and I did not enjoy the experience." It's true. Valdis pulled him to his knees by the soul the first time they met. This doubles as a warning against trying.

An architect? That might be useful in town, especially for those seeking greenhouses. This could be a boon, so long as he can get the man to cooperate...

"Safer? Why is that, Pyotr? What do you worry you could do to me?"